SCBWI SoCal booth at: OC Children's Book Festival

Registration opens May 23, 2026

2026 OC Children’s Book Festival

When: Sept. 20, 2026, 10:00-3:00

Where: Orange Coast College

Orange Coast College at 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, California 92626

Attention Published SCBWI Members!

Our SoCal Region has reserved a booth at the OC Children’s Book Festival! Now’s your chance to sell and sign your books. Since we have so many published members and one booth, we’re trying something new: two tables! What does that mean? Each reserved spot means you get two feet to display your books, and you get to stand and mingle with attendees. Yes, that’s right. Get out of your comfort zone. Draw people in with your books, and of course, our spinner toward a prize. 

Cost:

• 10:00-12:00: $50
• 12:00-3:00: $65

FAQ

What do I get by signing up? 

1. A two-foot spot to display your books at our table in our SCBWI SoCal booth. You can sell and sign your books and mingle with other published members.

2. Publicity: A listing of your information will be listed on the SCBWI-SoCal website, posted on our social media,  and shared through email blasts.

How would I prepare?

Members are responsible for bringing and selling their own books. If you’re taking cash, you’ll have to make your own change. If you’re swiping cards, using Venmo, PayPal, etc. on your cell phone, you’re responsible for the technology. You’re also responsible for your own sales tax. We suggest creating a one-page sign with the cover(s) of your book(s) and a QR code for sales.

How much space would I get?

You will get two feet of table space to display your books and any promotional materials such as bookmarks, postcards, fliers. Please be respectful of the professionals sharing the table.

If you have posters or artwork that requires an easel (yours), please:

1. Make sure it can be set up behind your spot without causing traffic problems.

2. Make sure you can quickly set it up before your signing time without disturbing the other presenters.

Please arrive early (allow extra time for parking) and be polite to the members during the transition times between sessions. If you still have fans when your time is up, feel free to step out of the booth to engage with them.

Can I store my books at the booth?

You may leave a box of your books at the SCBWI booth prior to your allotted time only as space is available on a first come basis. Any materials left at the end of the business day will become the property of SCBWI (we'll use them for various giveaways, so they won't go to waste). All boxes must be stackable, meaning we can put heavy things on top of your stuff without collapsing your box or the materials inside of it. Artwork, easels, posters and other odd-sized materials can be stored for the day only if space is available. Please be understanding and have an alternate plan if a volunteer tells you, "I just don't have the room."

What if the site won't let me register?

This event is open to SCBWI members only. Please check that your dues are up to date.

What is the refund policy?

There will be no refunds for this event.

If I’m not published, can I visit the booth?

YES! Everyone is welcome to visit our booth, buy books and get signatures. We will post the schedule, location and graphics of the books being sold in Sept.

Will there be a waiting list? 

If you'd like to be added to a waiting list, email Bev Plass at: [email protected].

What if I have more questions?

Don't click the green "help" button. Please email Bev Plass at: [email protected]